How to improve immunity of my child - #31441
Dear Doctor, My 5-year-and-2-month-old son has a weak immune system, which makes him prone to catching colds frequently, regardless of the season. As a result, his growth is affected. After watching several videos on Swarnaprashan, I'm interested in starting it for my child to boost his immunity. Could you please advise if Swarnaprashan is suitable for my child? If so, what is the recommended dosage per day, and for how long should it be continued?


Doctors’ responses
Swarnaprashan is an Ayurvedic practice that involves giving kids a combination of gold ash (Swarnabhasma) with honey and ghee. Historically, it is believed to enhance immunity, memory, and overall well-being. For children like yours, Swarnaprashan may help in strengthening the immune system and promoting healthy growth.
However, it’s crucial to consider a few things before proceeding. First, consult an experienced Ayurvedic pediatrician to confirm that this practice suits your child’s Prakriti. Every child is unique, and professional guidance ensures the best approach tailored to individual needs. If you decide to proceed, administering Swarnaprashan on Pushya Nakshatra days (a specific lunar phase) is considered auspicious and effective but not mandatory.
For a child of your son’s age, the dosage can vary from 2 to 5 drops per administration. It is generally done once a month, but some practitioners recommend weekly or even daily dosages for a continuous 6-month period. Again, expert advice from an Ayurvedic doctor will give the most suitable dosage and frequency for your child.
Beyond Swarnaprashan, it is beneficial to strengthen his Agni (digestive fire) with a balanced diet, including fruits like amla, which is rich in Vitamin C, and herbs like Tulsi and Guduchi that support immune function. Encourage regular physical activity and proper sleep to bolster overall health.
Monitoring your child to observe any changes in health or behavior is importance, and any adverse reactions should be relayed to the healthcare provider immediately. Also, please be aware that while Swarnaprashan is deemed safe and beneficial traditionally, scientific validation is limited, thus making professional guidance even more essential.
Swarnaprashan can indeed be a beneficial approach to enhancing your child’s immunity from an Ayurvedic perspective. It’s a traditional practice involving the administration of gold ash (Swarnabhasma) combined with other herbal ingredients. This can help strengthen the immune system, promote growth, and improve cognitive functions in children.
For a child of 5 years and 2 months, Swarnaprashan is generally considered safe. The recommended dosage often depends on various factors including the child’s prakriti, current health condition, and specific requirements. Typically, a dose of about 1-2 drops (if using a liquid formulation) or a pinch (if it’s a paste) once a day is suggested. Please ensure to buy Swarnaprashan from a certified Ayurvedic practitioner or pharmacy to guarantee purity and quality.
As for the duration, it’s traditionally administered on Pushya Nakshatra days, which occurs monthly, for consistent and gradual benefits. However, some practitioners suggest daily administration for specific periods to address short-term health concerns. It’s crucial to have this personalized according to your child’s individual health needs and the practitioner’s recommendation.
In addition to Swarnaprashan, supporting his immunity with a balanced diet is important. Focus on including fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Warm foods like soups and porridges help balance vata and kapha doshas. Ensure your child stays adequately hydrated, especially during seasonal changes. Remember, if you’re seeing no improvement or have concerns, seeking a consultation with an experienced Ayurvedic doctor is advisable to tailor the approach specifically to your child’s condition.

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